11 May 2011

Many of the regulars here are Mac users. I thought I'd call your attention to a bit of malware I've been seeing a lot. It's masquerading as a security programs called "MAC Defender" and "Mac Security."

They're trojans.

MAC Defender/Mac Security pretends to run a virus scan, which insists you're infected. If you download and install the application, it periodically opens up porn sites in an effort to further convince you that you're infected. Then it offers you the opportunity to "subscribe" to the antiviral package via credit card, using an unsecured website.

Here's an explanatory video from Intego, a reputable antivirus firm:

Always think hard before you supply that admin password to an installer.